The effects of hippotherapy on the motor function of children with spastic bilateral cerebral palsy

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate whether hippotherapy could improve the functional performance of preschool- and school-aged children with spastic bilateral CP. We assessed whether the therapeutic effects of hippotherapy would be different according to the functional statuses of the recipients. [Methods] Thirtythree children, aged four years or older, with spastic bilateral CP were enrolled in this study. The children received thirty minutes of hippotherapy twice a week for eight consecutive weeks. Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) values were determined during the pre-riding control period, at the onset of hippotherapy, and after hippotherapy. The subjects served as their own controls. [Results] Total GMFM scores and PBS did not change during the pre-riding control period; however, the GMFM and PBS of children with CP improved significantly after hippotherapy. Specifically, dimensions D and E of the GMFM were significantly increased after hippotherapy compared with the pre-riding period. [Conclusions] Hippotherapy can improve gross motor function and balance in pediatric CP patients without adverse effects. Therefore, it may be considered as an effective therapeutic method for rehabilitation of preschool- and school-aged children with spastic CP.